The 10th Anniversary of Sorry Day was marked in Parliament today with the unveiling of a calligraphy version of the Apology Motion.

“Sorry Day is a day to acknowledge the significance of parliament’s national apology to the Stolen Generations, for what are now recognised as past injustices and mistreatment,” said Anthony Albanese.

The manuscript of the historic ‘Motion of Apology to Australia’s Indigenous Peoples’ was produced by Canberra artist Gemma Black on calfskin.

“The Apology is an important part of the framework which will enable us to make the practical and structural changes that are needed to see improvement in the lives of Indigenous Australians,” said Anthony Albanese.

This year, the Australian Government has provided funding to 26 organisations to support activities across the country.

The Australian Government is committed to working with Stolen Generations, to make sure their voices are heard in the development of targeted programs to help heal the pain.

In June 2008, the Government will meet with Stolen Generations members, professionals in women’s and men’s health, trauma, child protection and mental health specialists, and family reunion services to map a way forward together.

The Department of Health will consult with Stolen Generations on the development of a training program and materials for mainstream health service providers on Stolen Generations issues.

Since the election, the Rudd Labor Government has committed more than $1.2 billion over five years to closing the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians,  including undertaking major programs in Early Childhood Development, Education, Health, Community safety, Employment, Economic participation, Welfare reform , and Governance and Leadership.

“The Rudd Labor Government is committed to closing the gap between indigenous and non indigenous Australians,” said Anthony Albanese.